Bathroom Accessories

accessorize for safety.

However, price does not mean everything. The bottom line to any home medical equipment is that it matches the needs of its intended use and that it is safe.

Most falls and mishaps happen in the bathroom due to many factors including water everywhere, a very used room etc. Bathroom accessories are not always the luxuries that some people think they are...

Unfortunately, Medicare thinks they are... so much that the only item Medicare covers the cost of in the bathroom is a 3-in-1 commode. Everything else, to them, is a luxury item.

Many Durable Medical Equipment (DME) stores and suppliers online and in stores can help you find the DME that will fit your needs.

I will share a few tips and tricks from 16 years of experience out in the field of home health care physical therapy. I have seen what works, what doesn't and what can work instead - potentially saving you money without compromising safety.
Bathroom accessory costs are on the rise while income seems to be headed south. A long life is hard to live without purchasing some type of bathroom accessories for safety.

With lots of rooms and ground to cover, we'll start in the bathroom, where most falls and mishaps take place and where most medical equipment seems to be lacking.

While there are many areas of concern for safety in the bathroom , we will be looking specifically at durable medical equipment here and not so much at safety although they are hard to separate.

The primary areas of need for bathroom accessories are:

• Raised commodes and commode modifications i.e. arm rails, bedside commodes etc
• Shower seating medical equipment
• Grab bars inside and outside the shower/bath

Grab bars come in all shapes, sizes and options

Your basic grab bars come in various lengths, colors and textures. These can double into towel racks. Generally found in most Medical Equipment stores.

You can find cheaper grab bars if you shop around. i.e. Walmart vs. a Home Medical Equipment store.

Suction Cup Grab bars work very well. Be sure to secure correctly and test before each use. Found at some Medical Equipment Stores. These can double as washrag or towel bars. DO NOT use suction cup washrag or towel bars!!!

A small screen door handle can be installed in smaller places where a long bar is not needed. Not a technical piece of medical equipment but who's counting? If it works safely and cost $2 vs $60, you pocket book will thank you.

Don't use your built in washrag bar. Don't use your overhead curtain rod. Don't use your glass doors for support. Don't use your regular towel rack for support. None of these were designed for medical equipment use.